[Technical Field]
[0001] The disclosure relates to an electronic device. More particularly, the disclosure
relates to an electronic device, which is wearable on a part of a human body and having
at least one adjustable feature to conform the electronic device to a respective human
body.
[Background Art]
[0002] The term "electronic device" refers to a device that performs a specific function
according to an equipped program, such as an electronic scheduler, a portable multimedia
reproducer, a mobile communication terminal, a tablet PC, an image/sound device, a
desktop/laptop PC, or a vehicular navigation system, as well as home appliances. The
above-mentioned electronic devices may output, for example, information stored therein
as sound or an image. As the integration degree of such electronic devices has increased,
and super-high speed and large-capacity wireless communication has become popular,
various functions have recently been provided in a single mobile communication terminal.
For example, various functions, such as entertainment functions (e.g., a game function),
multimedia functions (e.g., a music/video reproducing function), communication and
security functions for mobile banking, schedule management functions, and e-wallet
functions, are integrated in a single electronic device, in addition to communication
functions.
[0003] Such a portable electronic device (e.g., an electronic scheduler, a portable multimedia
reproducer, a mobile communication terminal, or a tablet PC) is generally equipped
with a display device and a battery, and has a bar-type, folder-type, or sliding-type
appearance due to the inclusion of a display or battery. In recent years, as the performance
of display devices and batteries have been improved, electronic devices, which are
miniaturized to be capable of being worn on a part of a human body, such as the wrist
or the head, have appeared.
[0004] In order to carry an electronic device or to make the electronic device wearable
on a part of a human body, a display, processor, and/or battery having a shape designed
to be suitable for miniaturization, weight reduction, and wearability of the electronic
device, and having a sufficient capacity may be required. Further, such a device would
require at least one adjustable feature to conform the electronic device to a respective
human body.
[0005] The above information is presented as background information only, and to assist
with an understanding of the disclosure. No determination has been made, and no assertion
is made, as to whether any of the above might be applicable as prior art with regard
to the disclosure. Publication
CN 206 348 526 U discloses prior art.
[Disclosure of Invention]
[Technical Problem]
[0006] Typical wearable electronic devices are manufactured in a uniform appearance in which
different head shapes or inter pupillary distances (IPDs) of respective users are
not taken into consideration, and may thus provide images such as distorted or unclear
photographs and/or pictures.
[0007] For example, when a user has a large head relative to the wearing structure of a
wearable electronic device, the wearing structure of the wearable electronic device
may be bent, and the output direction of light emitted from a light output device
such as a projector built in a temple portion may be changed and a distorted image
may be provided to the user. As another example, when a user has a large head relative
to the wearing structure of a wearable electronic device, a connection portion disposed
between two display devices of the wearable electronic device may be warped, which
may result in variation in the angle between the eyes and the display devices, thereby
making the user feel dizzy. As another example, when the positions of both eyes of
a user and the positions to which an image such as a photograph and/or a picture are
dislocated according to the user's IPD, a proper focus may not be located in the image.
[Solution to Problem]
[0008] Aspects of the disclosure are to address at least the above-mentioned problems and/or
disadvantages and to provide at least the advantages described below.
[0009] In accordance with an aspect of the disclosure, a wearable electronic device is provided
according to claims 1-13.
[0010] According to an example, the wearable electronic devices includes a first housing
including a first display device configured to provide visual information, and a first
connection unit having a first protrusion formed thereon, a second housing including
a second display device coupled to the first connection unit to be movable in a predetermined
direction and configured to provide visual information, and a second connection unit
having a second protrusion formed thereon, and a circular plate including a spiral
recess, the circular plate being coupled to the first protrusion in a first region
of the recess and being coupled to the second protrusion in a second region of the
recess spaced apart from the first region by a first predetermined interval. The circular
plate may be configured such that, by the rotation of the circular plate, the first
protrusion and the second protrusion move in a predetermined direction along the recess
such that the first predetermined interval may be changed to a second predetermined
interval, and depending on the second predetermined interval, the distance between
the first housing and the second housing may be adjustable.
[0011] According to an example, a wearable electronic device is provided that includes a
first display device configured to provide visual information, a second display device
disposed to be spaced apart from the first display device and configured to provide
visual information, and a distance adjustment structure disposed between the first
display device and the second display device, and configured to adjust the distance
between the first display device and the second display device. The distance adjustment
structure may include a first connection unit disposed to extend from the first display
device toward the second display device and including a first protrusion disposed
to protrude in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction, a second connection
unit disposed to extend from the second display device toward the first display device
and including a second protrusion disposed to protrude in a direction perpendicular
to the extension direction, and a curved plate including a spiral recess such that
the first protrusion and the second protrusion are seated in the recess in a state
of being spaced apart from each other so as to provide a spiral movement. As the curved
plate rotates, the distance between the first protrusion and the second protrusion
disposed in the spiral recess may be varied.
[Advantageous Effects of Invention]
[0012] In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, a wearable electronic device
is provided that is able to include a distance adjustment structure that adjusts the
distance between display devices that provide an image, such as a photo and/or picture,
to correspond to both the user's eyes.
[0013] In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, a wearable electronic device
is provided that is able to prevent warping of an optical path provided by an optical
output device such as a projector or to prevent bending of a connection portion between
the display devices by adjusting the distance between the display devices that provide
an image to a user.
[0014] In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, a wearable electronic device
is provided that is able to eliminate side effects such as phase distortion and dizziness
by adjusting the wearable electronic device depending on a user's IPD.
[0015] Other aspects, advantages, and salient features of the disclosure will become apparent
to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which, taken
in conjunction with the annexed drawings, discloses various embodiments of the disclosure.
[Brief Description of Drawings]
[0016] The above and other aspects, features, and advantages of certain embodiments of the
disclosure will be more apparent from the following description taken in conjunction
with the accompanying drawings, in which:
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a wearable electronic device in a network environment
according to an embodiment of the disclosure;
FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a wearable electronic device according to
an embodiment of the disclosure;
FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a wearable electronic device according
to an embodiment in the state in which a distance adjustment structure is disassembled
according to an embodiment of the disclosure;
FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a wearable electronic device of FIG. 3,
which is viewed in another direction according to an embodiment of the disclosure;
FIG. 5 is an enlarged perspective view illustrating a front side of a first connection
unit and a second connection unit of a distance adjustment structure in a wearable
electronic device according to an embodiment of the disclosure;
FIG. 6 is an enlarged perspective view illustrating a rear side of a first connection
unit and a second connection unit of a distance adjustment structure in a wearable
electronic device according to an embodiment of the disclosure;
FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating a first cover coupled to a first connection
unit of a wearable electronic device according to an embodiment of the disclosure;
FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating a rear side of first and second connection
units and a circular plate of a wearable electronic device according to an embodiment
of the disclosure;
FIG. 9 is a projection view illustrating a circular plate coupled to first and second
connection units of a wearable electronic device according to an embodiment of the
disclosure;
FIG. 10 is a perspective view illustrating one side of a circular plate according
to an embodiment of the disclosure;
FIG. 11 is a top view illustrating a second cover capable of being coupled to a first
cover of a wearable electronic device according to an embodiment of the disclosure;
FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a circular plate capable of being
coupled to a second cover of a wearable electronic device according to an embodiment
of the disclosure;
FIG. 13 is an enlarged view illustrating a first state prior to operation of a distance
adjustment structure of a wearable electronic device according to an embodiment of
the disclosure and the distance adjustment structure;
FIG. 14 is an enlarged view illustrating a second state in which a length is varied
through a distance adjustment structure of a wearable electronic device according
to an embodiment of the disclosure and the distance adjustment structure;
FIG. 15 is an enlarged view illustrating a third state in which a length is varied
through a distance adjustment structure of a wearable electronic device according
to an embodiment of the disclosure and the distance adjustment structure;
FIG. 16 is a perspective view illustrating a wearable electronic device according
to an embodiment of the disclosure, which is equipped with a distance adjustment structure;
FIG. 17 is an enlarged view in which a part of a rear side of a distance adjustment
structure according to an embodiment of the disclosure is enlarged; and
FIG. 18 is an enlarged view in which a part of a front side of a distance adjustment
structure according to an embodiment of the disclosure is enlarged.
[0017] Throughout the drawings, it should be noted that like reference numbers are used
to depict the same or similar elements, features, and structures.
[Mode for the Invention]
[0018] The following description with reference to the accompanying drawings is provided
to assist in a comprehensive understanding of various embodiments of the disclosure
as defined by the claims. It includes various specific details to assist in that understanding,
but these are to be regarded as merely exemplary. Accordingly, those of ordinary skill
in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications of the various embodiments
described herein can be made without departing from the scope of the claims. In addition,
descriptions of well-known functions and constructions may be omitted for clarity
and conciseness.
[0019] The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited
to the bibliographical meanings, but are merely used to enable a clear and consistent
understanding of the disclosure. Accordingly, it should be apparent to those skilled
in the art that the following description of various embodiments of the disclosure
is provided for illustration purpose only, and not for the purpose of limiting the
disclosure as defined by the appended claims. It is to be understood that the singular
forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates
otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to "a component surface" includes reference
to one or more of such surfaces.
[0020] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a wearable electronic device in a network
environment according to various embodiments of the disclosure.
[0021] Referring to FIG. 1, a wearable electronic device 101 in a network environment 100
may communicate with an electronic device 102 via a first network 198 (e.g., a short-range
wireless communication network), or an electronic device 104 or a server 108 via a
second network 199 (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According
to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 may communicate with the electronic device
104 via the server 108. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 may
include a processor 120, a memory 130, an input device 150, a sound output device
155, a display device 160, an audio module 170, a sensor module 176, an interface
177, a haptic module 179, a camera module 180, a power management module 188, a battery
189, a communication module 190, a subscriber identification module (SIM) 196, and/or
an antenna module 197. In some embodiments, at least one (e.g., the display device
160 or the camera module 180) of the components may be omitted from the electronic
device 101, or one or more other components may be added in the electronic device
101. In some embodiments, some of the components may be implemented as single integrated
circuitry. For example, the sensor module 176 (e.g., a fingerprint sensor, an iris
sensor, or an illuminance sensor) may be implemented as embedded in the display device
160 (e.g., a display).
[0022] The processor 120 may execute, for example, software (e.g., a program 140) to control
at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic
device 101 coupled with the processor 120, and may perform various data processing
or computation. According to one embodiment, as at least part of the data processing
or computation, the processor 120 may load a command or data received from another
component (e.g., the sensor module 176 or the communication module 190) in a volatile
memory 132, process the command or the data stored in the volatile memory 132, and
store resulting data in a non-volatile memory 134. According to an embodiment, the
processor 120 may include a main processor 121 (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU)
or an application processor (AP)), and an auxiliary processor 123 (e.g., a graphics
processing unit (GPU), an image signal processor (ISP), a sensor hub processor, or
a communication processor (CP)) that is operable independently from, or in conjunction
with, the main processor 121. Additionally or alternatively, the auxiliary processor
123 may be adapted to consume less power than the main processor 121, or to be specific
to a specified function. The auxiliary processor 123 may be implemented as separate
from, or as part of the main processor 121.
[0023] The auxiliary processor 123 may control at least some of functions or states related
to at least one component (e.g., the display device 160, the sensor module 176, or
the communication module 190) among the components of the electronic device 101, instead
of the main processor 121 while the main processor 121 is in an inactive (e.g., sleep)
state, or together with the main processor 121 while the main processor 121 is in
an active state (e.g., executing an application). According to an embodiment, the
auxiliary processor 123 (e.g., an ISP or a (CP)) may be implemented as part of another
component (e.g., the camera module 180 or the communication module 190) functionally
related to the auxiliary processor 123.
[0024] The memory 130 may store various data used by at least one component (e.g., the processor
120 or the sensor module 176) of the electronic device 101. The various data may include,
for example, software (e.g., the program 140) and input data or output data for a
command related thereto. The memory 130 may include the volatile memory 132 and/or
the non-volatile memory 134. The non-volatile memory may include an internal memory
136 and/or an external memory 138.
[0025] The program 140 may be stored in the memory 130 as software, and may include, for
example, an operating system (OS) 142, middleware 144, or an application 146.
[0026] The input device 150 may receive a command or data to be used by other components
(e.g., the processor 120) of the electronic device 101, from outside (e.g., a user)
of the electronic device 101. The input device 150 may include, for example, a microphone,
a mouse, a keyboard, or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).
[0027] The sound output device 155 may output sound signals to the outside of the electronic
device 101. The sound output device 155 may include, for example, a speaker or a receiver.
The speaker may be used for general purposes, such as playing multimedia or playing
recordings, and the receiver may be used for incoming calls. According to an embodiment,
the receiver may be implemented as separate from, or as part of the speaker.
[0028] The display device 160 may visually provide information to the outside (e.g., a user)
of the electronic device 101. The display device 160 may include, for example, a display,
a hologram device, or a projector and control circuitry to control a corresponding
one of the display, hologram device, and projector. According to an embodiment, the
display device 160 may also include touch circuitry adapted to detect a touch, or
sensor circuitry (e.g., a pressure sensor) adapted to measure the intensity of force
incurred by the touch.
[0029] The audio module 170 may convert sound into an electrical signal and convert an electrical
signal into sound. According to an embodiment, the audio module 170 may obtain the
sound via the input device 150, or output the sound via the sound output device 155
or a headphone of an external electronic device (e.g., an electronic device 102) directly
(e.g., wiredly) or wirelessly coupled with the electronic device 101.
[0030] The sensor module 176 may detect an operational state (e.g., power or temperature)
of the electronic device 101 or an environmental state (e.g., a state of a user) external
to the electronic device 101, and then generate an electrical signal or data value
corresponding to the detected state. According to an embodiment, the sensor module
176 may include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, an atmospheric pressure
sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor,
a color sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor,
a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.
[0031] The interface 177 may support one or more specified protocols to be used for the
electronic device 101 to be coupled with the external electronic device (e.g., the
electronic device 102) directly (e.g., wiredly) or wirelessly. According to an embodiment,
the interface 177 may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface
(HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, a secure digital (SD) card interface,
or an audio interface.
[0032] A connection terminal 178 may include a connector via which the electronic device
101 may be physically connected with the external electronic device (e.g., the electronic
device 102). According to an embodiment, the connection terminal 178 may include,
for example, a HDMI connector, a USB connector, a SD card connector, or an audio connector
(e.g., a headphone connector).
[0033] The haptic module 179 may convert an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus
(e.g., a vibration or a movement) or electrical stimulus which may be recognized by
a user via tactile sensation or kinesthetic sensation. According to an embodiment,
the haptic module 179 may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element,
or an electric stimulator.
[0034] The camera module 180 may capture still images or moving images. According to an
embodiment, the camera module 180 may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image
signal processors, or flashes.
[0035] The power management module 188 may manage power supplied to or used by the electronic
device 101. According to one embodiment, the power management module 188 may be implemented
as at least part of, for example, a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).
[0036] The battery 189 may supply power to at least one component of the electronic device
101. According to an embodiment, the battery 189 may include, for example, one or
more of a primary cell which is not rechargeable, a secondary cell which is rechargeable,
or a fuel cell.
[0037] The communication module 190 may support establishing a direct (e.g., wired) communication
channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device 101 and
the external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device 102, the electronic device
104, or the server 108) and performing communication via the established communication
channel. The communication module 190 may include one or more communication processors
that are operable independently from the processor 120 (e.g., the AP) and that support
a direct (e.g., wired) communication or a wireless communication. According to an
embodiment, the communication module 190 may include a wireless communication module
192 (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module,
or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication
module 194 (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module or a power line
communication (PLC) module). A corresponding one of these communication modules may
communicate with the external electronic device via the first network 198 (e.g., a
short-range communication network, such as Bluetooth
™, wireless-fidelity (Wi-Fi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or the second
network 199 (e.g., a long-range communication network, such as a cellular network,
the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., LAN or wide area network (WAN)). These
various types of communication modules may be implemented as a single component (e.g.,
a single chip), or may be implemented as multiple components (e.g., multi-chips) separate
from each other. The wireless communication module 192 may identify and authenticate
the electronic device 101 in a communication network, such as the first network 198
or the second network 199, using subscriber information (e.g., international mobile
subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the SIM 196.
[0038] The antenna module 197 may transmit or receive a signal and/or power to or from the
outside (e.g., the external electronic device) of the electronic device 101. According
to an embodiment, the antenna module 197 may include an antenna including a radiating
element composed of a conductive material or a conductive pattern formed in or on
a substrate (e.g., PCB). According to an embodiment, the antenna module 197 may include
a plurality of antennas. In such a case, at least one antenna appropriate for a communication
scheme used in the communication network, such as the first network 198 or the second
network 199, may be selected, for example, by the communication module 190 (e.g.,
the wireless communication module 192) from the plurality of antennas. The signal
or the power may then be transmitted or received between the communication module
190 and the external electronic device via the selected at least one antenna. According
to an embodiment, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC))
other than the radiating element may be additionally formed as part of the antenna
module 197.
[0039] At least some of the above-described components may be coupled mutually and communicate
signals (e.g., commands or data) therebetween via an inter-peripheral communication
scheme (e.g., a bus, general purpose input and output (GPIO), serial peripheral interface
(SPI), or mobile industry processor interface (MIPI)).
[0040] According to an embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between
the electronic device 101 and the external electronic device 104 via the server 108
coupled with the second network 199. Each of the electronic devices 102 and 104 may
be a device of a same type as, or a different type, from the electronic device 101.
According to an embodiment, all or some of operations to be executed at the electronic
device 101 may be executed at one or more of the external electronic devices 102,
104, or 108. For example, if the electronic device 101 is to perform a function or
a service automatically, or in response to a request from a user or another device,
the electronic device 101, instead of, or in addition to, executing the function or
the service, may request the one or more external electronic devices to perform at
least part of the function or the service. The one or more external electronic devices
receiving the request may perform the at least part of the function or the service
requested, or an additional function or an additional service related to the request,
and transfer an outcome of the performing to the electronic device 101. The electronic
device 101 may provide the outcome, with or without further processing of the outcome,
as at least part of a reply to the request. To that end, a cloud computing, distributed
computing, or client-server computing technology may be used, for example.
[0041] The electronic device according to various embodiments may be one of various types
of electronic devices. The electronic devices may include, for example, a portable
communication device (e.g., a smartphone), a computer device, a portable multimedia
device, a portable medical device, a camera, a wearable device, or a home appliance.
According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the electronic devices are not limited
to those described above.
[0042] It should be appreciated that various embodiments of the disclosure and the terms
used therein are not intended to limit the technological features set forth herein
to particular embodiments and include various changes, equivalents, or replacements
for a corresponding embodiment. With regard to the description of the drawings, similar
reference numerals may be used to refer to similar or related elements. It is to be
understood that a singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one
or more of the things, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise. As
used herein, each of such phrases as "A or B," "at least one of A and B," "at least
one of A or B," "A, B, or C," "at least one of A, B, and C," and "at least one of
A, B, or C," may include any one of, or all possible combinations of the items enumerated
together in a corresponding one of the phrases. As used herein, such terms as "1st"
and "2nd," or "first" and "second" may be used to simply distinguish a corresponding
component from another, and does not limit the components in other aspect (e.g., importance
or order). It is to be understood that if an element (e.g., a first element) is referred
to, with or without the term "operatively" or "communicatively", as "coupled with,"
"coupled to," "connected with," or "connected to" another element (e.g., a second
element), it means that the element may be coupled with the other element directly
(e.g., wiredly), wirelessly, or via a third element.
[0043] As used herein, the term "module" may include a unit implemented in hardware, software,
or firmware, and may interchangeably be used with other terms, for example, "logic,"
"logic block," "part," or "circuitry". A module may be a single integral component,
or a minimum unit or part thereof, adapted to perform one or more functions. For example,
according to an embodiment, the module may be implemented in a form of an application-specific
integrated circuit (ASIC).
[0044] Various embodiments as set forth herein may be implemented as software (e.g., the
program 140) including one or more instructions that are stored in a storage medium
(e.g., the internal memory 136 or external memory 138) that is readable by a machine
(e.g., the electronic device 101). For example, a processor (e.g., the processor 120)
of the machine (e.g., the electronic device 101) may invoke at least one of the one
or more instructions stored in the storage medium, and execute it, with or without
using one or more other components under the control of the processor. This allows
the machine to be operated to perform at least one function according to the at least
one instruction invoked. The one or more instructions may include a code generated
by a complier or a code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage
medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Wherein, the
term "non-transitory" simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device, and
does not include a signal (e.g., an electromagnetic wave), but this term does not
differentiate between where data is semi-permanently stored in the storage medium
and where the data is temporarily stored in the storage medium.
[0045] According to an embodiment, a method according to various embodiments of the disclosure
may be included and provided in a computer program product. The computer program product
may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product
may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact
disc read only memory (CD-ROM)), or be distributed (e.g., downloaded or uploaded)
online via an application store (e.g., PlayStore
™), or between two user devices (e.g., smart phones) directly. If distributed online,
at least part of the computer program product may be temporarily generated or at least
temporarily stored in the machine-readable storage medium, such as memory of the manufacturer's
server, a server of the application store, or a relay server.
[0046] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of
the above-described components may include a single entity or multiple entities. According
to various embodiments, one or more of the above-described components may be omitted,
or one or more other components may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality
of components (e.g., modules or programs) may be integrated into a single component.
In such a case, according to various embodiments, the integrated component may still
perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components in the same or
similar manner as they are performed by a corresponding one of the plurality of components
before the integration. According to various embodiments, operations performed by
the module, the program, or another component may be carried out sequentially, in
parallel, repeatedly, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed
in a different order or omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.
[0047] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a wearable electronic device according
to various embodiments of the disclosure.
[0048] Referring to FIG. 2, the electronic device 101 may be implemented as a head-worn
electronic device in which a pair of display devices 350 is respectively mounted on
a pair of frame-shaped housings 310 and a pair of wearing members 320 respectively
extends from the pair of housings 310 parallel or substantially parallel to each other.
The electronic device 101 may include a distance adjustment structure 340 configured
to adjust the length between the pair of housings, and circuit boards 360 and batteries
370, which are disposed within the wearing member 320. As another example, the electronic
device 101 may include optical output devices 380 (e.g., projectors), light refraction
modules 390 (e.g., prisms), or a display module (not illustrated) in the wearing members
320 of the electronic device 101. The structure of the electronic device 101 of FIG.
2 may be partly or wholly the same as the structure of the electronic device 101 of
FIG. 1.
[0049] According to various embodiments, each display device 350 may include a display module,
a projector, or a sensor equipped with a touch circuit, or the like, and the display
of the display module may be a transparent or translucent display. As another example,
the display device 350 may include a window member, which may be a translucent glass
or a member of which the light transmittance may be adjusted as the coloring density
thereof is adjusted. As another example, the display device 350 may include a lens
including a waveguide, a reflective lens, or the like, and each of the lenses may
transmit the light output from the output device to the user's eyes.
[0050] According to various embodiments, the pair of housings 310 may be in the form of
a frame that at least partially surrounds the edges of each of the display devices
350 and may serve as a rim of a glasses structure including general sunglasses.
[0051] According to various embodiments, the circuit boards 360 may be respectively disposed
in the pair of wearing members 320, and circuit wiring connecting the circuit boards
may be disposed inside or outside the pair of housings 310. The pair of wearing members
320 extends parallel or substantially parallel to each other from the opposite ends
of the pair of housings 310, thereby providing a means for allowing the user to wear
the electronic device 101 on their body (e.g., their head). The pair of wearing members
320 may serve as temples of a general eyeglass structure. For example, the pair of
housings 310 may be located on the user's face to position the display devices 350
to be aligned to the user's eyes, and the pair of wearing members 320 may be worn
on the user's ears at opposite sides of the user's head.
[0052] According to various embodiments, the pair of wearing members 320 may be utilized
in containing the circuit boards 360, the batteries 370, the optical output devices
380, the light refraction modules 390, and so on. For example, each of the pair of
wearing members 320 may be provided with a housing structure capable of accommodating
therein the circuit boards 360, the batteries 370, the optical output devices 380,
or the light refraction module 390. As another example, the electronic device 101
may include the circuit boards 360, the batteries 370, the optical output devices
380, and the light refraction module 390 in each of the pair of wearing members 320.
As another example, in disposing the circuit boards 360, the batteries 370, the optical
output devices 380, or the light refraction modules 390, various modifications may
be made in consideration of the weight distribution and wearing comfort of the electronic
device 101.
[0053] According to an embodiment, there may be provided a plurality of circuit boards 360,
one of which may be provided as a board that includes a driving circuit of the display
devices 350, a control circuit configured to adjust coloring density, and a processor
configured to process image information or the like. Another one of the circuit boards
360 may be provided as a circuit board mounted with a communication circuit and various
connectors, which provide an interface with a user and a connection to another electronic
device or a commercial communication network, and a sensor module (e.g., the sensor
module 176 in FIG. 1). As another example, a microphone or speakerphone for inputting
and outputting sound may also be disposed on one of the circuit boards 360 or adjacent
to one of the circuit boards 360. However, the circuit arrangement of the circuit
boards 360 and the functions thereof are not limited thereto, and may be variously
adjusted as needed. For example, the sensor module may be disposed on each of the
circuit boards 360.
[0054] According to an embodiment, the circuit boards 360 may be respectively disposed in
the wearing members 320. In another example, the sensor module 176 may include a proximity
sensor, an illuminance sensor, a gyro sensor, a camera module, a gaze tracker, a geomagnetic
sensor, an accelerometer, or the like, and various sensors of the sensor module 176
do not necessarily have to be disposed on one of the circuit boards 360. For example,
a camera module may be disposed at an appropriate position on the pair of housings
310 so as to be close to the user's gaze. The sensor module 176 may detect information
on the surrounding environment necessary for setting an optimal use environment while
monitoring the use environment of the electronic device 101 and the like. For example,
the illuminance sensor mounted on the sensor module 176 may detect ambient illuminance
and may provide information necessary to adjust the color density, brightness, or
resolution of the display device 350.
[0055] According to an embodiment, a plurality of batteries 370 may be disposed so as to
provide power to the circuit boards 360, the display module, or the like, and may
be disposed in at least one of the wearing members 320 or may be respectively disposed
on the wearing members 320.
[0056] According to an embodiment, a plurality of optical output devices 380 and a plurality
of optical refraction modules 390 may be provided, and may be disposed in at least
one of the pair of the wearing members 320 or may be respectively disposed on the
wearing members 320. The light emitted from the light output devices 380 may reach
the display devices 350 via the light refraction modules 390. The electronic device
101 using the optical output devices 380 may be of a waveguide type or of a reflective
mirror type. For example, in the waveguide type, light emitted from a side light output
device such as a projector is reflected by a grating area formed on the display devices
using a waveguide such as a prism, and may be transmitted to the user's eyes. As another
example, in the reflective mirror type, the light emitted from the optical output
device may be directly reflected on the display devices in front of the user's eyes
so as to provide visual information to the user's eyes.
[0057] According to an embodiment, the circuit boards 360, which can be respectively disposed
in the pair of housings 310, may be connected to each other through circuit wiring
(not illustrated). The circuit wiring may provide a transmission/reception path of
various control signals and data between circuit boards. The circuit wiring may be
formed using a coaxial cable, and may have other various types of transmission line
structures such as a Flexible Printed Circuit Board (FPCB).
[0058] According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 may also include an input device
including a physical key or a touchpad. For example, input modules, such as a power
key and a touchpad, may be exposed to the outside of the electronic device 101 as
they are devices that require a user's direct contact.
[0059] According to various embodiments, the distance adjustment structure 340 may be disposed
between the display devices 350. The distance adjustment structure 340 may be disposed
between the pair of housings 310, and may adjust the separation distance of the display
devices 350 in consideration of the user's head. Hereinafter, the distance adjustment
structure will be described in detail.
[0060] FIG. 3 is an expanded perspective view illustrating a wearable electronic device
according to various embodiments in a state in which a distance adjustment structure
is disassembled. FIG. 4 is an expanded perspective view of a wearable electronic device
of FIG. 3, which is viewed in another direction.
[0061] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the wearable electronic device 101 may include a first
housing 311 including a first display device 351, a second housing 312 including a
second display device 352, a curved plate (e.g., a circular plate 500), a first cover
400, and a second cover 600. The first housing 311 may include a first connection
unit 201 and the second housing 312 may include a second connection unit 202. The
structure of the electronic device 101 of FIGS. 3 and 4 may be partly or wholly the
same as the structure of the electronic device 101 of FIG. 1 or the electronic device
101 of FIG. 2.
[0062] According to various embodiments, the user may wear the electronic device 101, and
may adjust the distance between the first housing 311 and the second housing 312 through
the distance adjustment structure depending on the size of the user's head. The distance
adjustment structure of the electronic device 101 may include the first connection
unit 201, the second connection unit 202, the circular plate 500, the first cover
400, and the second cover 600.
[0063] According to various embodiments, the first connection unit 201 and the second connection
unit 202 may be disposed so as to face each other, and may be guided by the circular
plate 500 and the first cover 400 to move horizontally. For example, the first connection
unit 201 and the second connection unit 202 may move so as to be spaced apart from
each other in the horizontal direction (or in different movement directions), and
the adjustable separation distance therebetween may be approximately 0 to 20 mm.
[0064] According to various embodiments, the first connection unit 201 may be disposed so
as to extend from the end of the first housing 311 toward the second housing 312,
and may include at least one protrusion (e.g., a first protrusion 221 in FIG. 6).
The second connection unit 202 extends from the end of the second housing 312 toward
the first housing 311, and may include at least one protrusion (e.g., a second protrusion
251 in FIG. 6). According to an embodiment, the front faces of the first connection
unit 201 and the second connection unit 202 may include a seating face on which at
least a portion of the first cover 400 is fixedly seated, and the rear faces of the
first connection unit 201 and the second connection unit 202 may include a seating
face on which at least a portion of the second cover 600 and/or the circular plate
500 may be fixedly seated.
[0065] According to various embodiments, when the first connection unit 201 and the second
connection unit 202 are disposed to be in contact with each other, an opening 203
is formed in the central region thereof, and a boss 611 of the second cover 600 may
pass through the opening 203 so as to support the first cover 400 and the circular
plate 500.
[0066] According to various embodiments, the circular plate 500 may include a first face
510 disposed to face the first connection unit 201 and the second connection unit
202, and a second face 520 disposed to face the second cover 600. For example, the
first face 510 may include a spiral recess (e.g., a recess 511 in FIG. 10), and may
include a region capable of engaging with the first protrusion 221 of the first connection
unit 201 and the second protrusion 251 of the second connection unit 202. As another
example, the circular plate 500 may include a through hole 530 in the center thereof,
and may be coupled with the second cover 600. The boss 611 of the second cover 600
may be connected to the first cover 400 through the through hole 530.
[0067] In accordance with the claimed invention, the first cover 400 is formed to cover
at least a portion of the front face of each of the first connection unit 201 and
the second connection unit 202, and may protect the first connection unit 201 and
the second connection unit 202 from being exposed to the outside. As another example,
the first cover 400 may be formed to enclose at least a portion of the side face of
the first connection unit 201 and/or the side face of the second connection unit 202.
For example, the first cover 400 may be formed to enclose at least a portion of the
upper face and/or the lower face of the first connection unit 201 and/or the second
connection unit 202 so as to hinder the first connection unit 201 and/or the second
connection unit 202 from playing in a direction other than the horizontal direction
when moving in the horizontal direction.
[0068] The first cover 400 includes one or more guide grooves and stoppers (e.g., guide
groove 421a, and 421b, and stoppers 422a, and 422b in FIG. 7) configured to guide
the first and second connectors 201 and 202 to move in the horizontal direction when
the separation distance between the first and second connectors 201 and 202 is varied.
The guide lines 211, 212, and 213 of the first connection unit 201 and the second
connection unit 202 (e.g., the guide lines 211, 212, and 213 in FIG. 5) may be moved
in the horizontal direction along the guide grooves of the first cover 400, and may
be suppressed from playing in a direction other than the horizontal direction. The
guide lines may restrict the vertical movement of the first connection unit 201 and
the second connection unit 202.
[0069] According to various embodiments, the second cover 600 may be formed to cover at
least a portion of the rear face of each of the first connection unit 201 and the
second connection unit 202, and may protect the first connection unit 201 and the
second connection unit 202 from being exposed to the outside. As another example,
the second cover 600 may be formed to enclose at least a portion of the side face
of the first connection unit 201 and/or the side face of the second connection unit
202. For example, the second cover 600 may be formed to enclose at least a portion
of the upper face and/or the lower face of the first connection unit 201 and/or the
second connection unit 202 so as to hinder the second connection unit 201 and/or the
second connection unit 202 from playing in a direction other than the horizontal direction
when moving in the horizontal direction.
[0070] The second cover 600 may include at least one boss 611, which may pass through the
through hole 530 in the circular plate 500 and the opening 203 so as to be connected
to the first cover 400. The second cover 600 may also include at least one hook 631,
and may be coupled to the first cover 400 so as to support the circular plate 500
disposed therein.
[0071] Hereinafter, each component of the distance adjustment structure will be described
in detail.
[0072] FIG. 5 is an enlarged perspective view illustrating a front side of a first connection
unit and a second connection unit of a distance adjustment structure in a wearable
electronic device according to various embodiments of the disclosure. FIG. 6 is an
enlarged perspective view illustrating a rear side of a first connection unit and
a second connection unit of a distance adjustment structure in a wearable electronic
device according to various embodiments of the disclosure. FIG. 7 is a perspective
view illustrating a first cover coupled to a first connection unit of a wearable electronic
device according to various embodiments of the disclosure.
[0073] Referring to FIGS. 5 to 7, the electronic device 101 may include the first housing
311 including the first connection unit 201, the second housing 312 including the
second connection unit 202, and the first cover 400. The structure of the electronic
device 101 of FIGS. 5 to 7 may be partly or wholly the same as the structure of the
electronic device 101 of FIGS. 2 to 4.
[0074] According to various embodiments, the first connection unit 201 and the second connection
unit 202 may be disposed so as to face each other, and may be guided by the circular
plate 500 and the first cover 400 to move in the horizontal direction. For example,
the first connection unit 201 and the second connection unit 202 may move so as to
be spaced apart from each other in the horizontal direction (or in different movement
directions), and the separation distance therebetween may be 0 to 20 mm.
[0075] According to various embodiments, the first connection unit 201 may be disposed so
as to extend from the end of the first housing 311 toward the second housing 312,
and may be provided in a plate shape. The first connection unit 201 may include a
first front portion 210 facing the front side and a first rear portion 220 facing
the rear side. As another example, the first connection unit 201 may include a first
side portion 230 enclosing at least a portion of a gap between the first front portion
210 and the first rear portion 220.
[0076] According to an embodiment, the first front portion 210 may include at least one
first guide line 211, 212, or 213 protruding to the front side. The first guide line
211, 212, or 213 may extend in the horizontal direction from the end of the first
connection unit 201, and may be coupled with the first cover 400 so as to guide the
movement of the first connection unit 201 in the horizontal direction (+ P or -P).
For example, there may be provided a plurality of first guide lines 211, 212, and
213, which may include the (1-1)
th guide line 211 disposed in the upper end region, the (1-3)
th guide line 213 disposed in the lower end region, and the (1-2)
th guide line 212 disposed between the (1-1)
th guide line 211 and the (1-3)
th guide line 213.
[0077] According to an embodiment, the (1-1)
th guide line 211 and the (1-3)
th guide line 213 may be in contact with the guide groove 421a or 421b formed in the
first cover 400 so as to help the first connection unit 201 to reciprocally slide
without shaking when the first connection unit 201 is horizontally moved. As another
example, the (1-2)
th guide line 212 may be in contact with a guide groove (e.g., the stopper 422a) formed
in the first cover 400 so as to provide a non-shaking horizontal movement while moving
within a predetermined separation distance.
[0078] According to an embodiment, the (1-1)
th guide line 211, the (1-2)
th guide line 212, and the (1-3)
th guide line 213 may have different widths and different lengths, and may be arranged
to respectively correspond to second guide lines 241, 242, and 243 formed in the second
connection unit 202. However, the number of the first guide lines 211, 212, and 213
is not limited to three. Through a design change, one first guide line or two or more
first guide lines may be provided by adjusting the width and length thereof.
[0079] According to an embodiment, the first rear portion 220 may include at least one first
protrusion 221 protruding to the rear side. The first protrusion 221 may be coupled
to the circular plate (e.g., the circular plate 500 in FIG. 10) so as to provide stable
movement for the first connection unit 201. For example, the first protrusion 221
may move in the state of being inserted into and seated in a region of the spiral
recess 511 formed in the circular plate 500. The first protrusion 221 may move in
the horizontal direction (+ P or -P) with respect to the second protrusion 251. For
example, the first protrusion 221 may move in response to the rotation of the circular
plate 500. The seated position of the first protrusion 221 in the spiral recess 511
may be variable.
[0080] According to an embodiment, the circular plate 500 may rotate clockwise or counterclockwise,
and the first protrusion 221 seated in the spiral recess 511 may move in the circular
plate 500 along the spiral recess 511. For example, when the circular plate 500 is
rotated in the first direction (e.g., clockwise), the position of the first protrusion
221, which is seated in the spiral recess 511, is varied to the edge region from the
center region of the circular plate 500 along the spiral recess 511, so that the separation
distance of the first connection unit 201 with respect to the second connection unit
202 can be increased. As another example, when the circular plate 500 is rotated in
the second direction (e.g., counterclockwise), the position of the first protrusion
221, which is seated in the spiral recess 511, is varied to the center region from
the edge region of the circular plate 500 along the spiral recess 511, so that the
separation distance of the first connection unit 201 with respect to the second connection
unit 202 can be reduced.
[0081] According to an embodiment, the first protrusion 221 may be disposed on the first
rear portion 220. For example, the first protrusion 221 may be disposed opposite the
(1-2)
th guide line 212 of the first front portion 210, and may be formed to have a thickness
corresponding to the spiral recess 511 in the circular plate 500.
[0082] According to an embodiment, the first protrusion 221 may be spaced apart from the
side end of the first rear portion 220 by a first distance (e.g., a first distance
L1 in FIG. 9). The first distance L1 may be the distance for the first protrusion
221 to be seated in the spiral recess 511 in the circular plate 500, and may be different
from a second distance (e.g., a second distance L2 in FIG. 9) by which the second
protrusion 251 formed on the second connection unit 202 is spaced apart from the side
end of a second rear portion 250. For example, the spiral recess 511 in the circular
plate 500 may have a spiral shape, and the first protrusion 221 and the second protrusion
251 may be provided at positions that do not correspond to each other, so as to be
seated in the recess shape. According to an embodiment, it is exemplified that one
first protrusion 221 is provided on the first rear portion 220, but is not limited
thereto. Through a design change, two or more first protrusions 221 may be provided
in various shapes to be seated and supported in the spiral recess 511 in the circular
plate 500.
[0083] According to various embodiments, the first connection unit 201 may also include
the first side portion 230 that is capable of being exposed toward the second housing
312, and the first side portion 230 may include at least one first recess 231. The
first side portion 230 may be in contact with a second side portion 260 of the second
connection unit 202 or may be spaced apart from the second side portion 260 of the
second connection unit 202 depending on the distance adjustment between the first
connection unit 201 and the second connection unit 202.
[0084] According to an embodiment, the first recess 231 formed in the first side portion
230 may be coupled to a second recess 261 in the second side portion 260 of the second
connection unit 202 so as to form a single closed opening 203. The opening 203 may
be disposed so as to penetrate through the first connection unit 201 and the second
connection unit 202, and may provide a space into which the boss (e.g., the boss 611
in FIG. 3) formed in the second cover (e.g., the second cover 600 in FIG. 3) is inserted.
For example, the boss 611 of the second cover 600 may be coupled to the first cover
400 by passing through the through hole 530 in the center of the circular plate 500
and through the opening 203.
[0085] According to various embodiments, the second connection unit 202 may be disposed
so as to extend from the end of the second housing 312 toward the first housing 311,
and may be provided in a plate shape. The second connection unit 202 may include a
second front portion 240 facing the front side and the second rear portion 250 facing
the rear side. As another example, the second connection unit 202 may include the
second side portion 260 enclosing at least a portion of a gap between the second front
portion 240 and the second rear portion 250.
[0086] According to an embodiment, the second front portion 240 may include at least one
second guide line 241, 242, or 243 protruding to the front side. The second guide
line 241, 242, or 243 may extend in the horizontal direction from the end of the second
connection unit 202, and may be coupled with the first cover 400 so as to guide the
movement of the second connection unit 202 in the horizontal direction (+ P or -P).
For example, there may be provided a plurality of second guide lines 241, 242, and
243, which may include the (2-1)
th guide line 241 disposed in the upper end region, the (2-3)
th guide line 243 disposed in the lower end region, and the (2-2)
th guide line 242 disposed between the (2-1)
th guide line 241 and the (2-3)
th guide line 243.
[0087] According to an embodiment, the (2-1)
th guide line 241 and the (2-3)
th guide line 243 may be in contact with the guide groove 421a or 421b formed in the
first cover 400 so as to help the second connection unit 202 to reciprocally slide
without shaking when the second connection unit 202 is horizontally moved. As another
example, the (2-2)
th guide line 242 may be in contact with a guide groove or stopper (e.g., the stopper
422b) formed in the first cover 400 so as to provide a non-shaking horizontal movement
while moving within a predetermined separation distance.
[0088] According to an embodiment, the (2-1)
th guide line 241, the (2-2)
th guide line 242, and the (2-3)
th guide line 243 may have different widths and different lengths, and may be arranged
to correspond to the first guide lines 211, 212, and 213, respectively. For example,
the (2-1)
th guide line 241 may be disposed so as to be in contact with or so as to be spaced
apart from the (1-1)
th guide line 211 in response to the horizontal movement of the distance adjustment
structure. As another example, the (2-3)
th guide line 243 may be disposed so as to be in contact with or so as to be spaced
apart from the (1-3)
th guide line 213 in response to the horizontal movement of the distance adjustment
structure. As another example, the (2-2)
th guide line 242 and the (1-2)
th guide line 212 may be disposed such that the separation distance between the (2-2)
th guide line 242 and the (1-2)
th guide line 212 is variable, but the (2-2)
th guide line 242 and the (1-2)
th guide line 212 are not brought into contact with each other in response to the horizontal
movement of the distance adjustment structure. However, the number of the second guide
lines 241, 242, and 243 is not limited to three. Through a design change, one first
guide line or two or more first guide lines may be provided by adjusting the width
and length thereof.
[0089] According to an embodiment, the second rear portion 250 may include at least one
second protrusion 251 protruding rearwards. The second protrusion 251 may be coupled
to the circular plate 500 so as to provide stable movement for the second connection
unit 202. For example, the second protrusion 251 may move in the state of being inserted
into and seated in a region of the spiral recess 511 formed in the circular plate
500. The second protrusion 251 may move in the horizontal direction (+ P or -P) with
respect to the first protrusion 221, and the second protrusion 251 may move in response
to the rotation of the circular plate 500. The seated position of the second protrusion
251 in the spiral recess 511 may be variable.
[0090] According to an embodiment, the circular plate 500 may rotate clockwise or counterclockwise,
and the second protrusion 251 seated in the spiral recess 511 may move in the circular
plate 500 along the spiral recess 511. For example, when the circular plate 500 is
rotated in the first direction (e.g., clockwise), the position of the second protrusion
251, which is seated in the spiral recess 511, is varied to the edge region from the
center region of the circular plate 500 along the spiral recess 511, so that the separation
distance of the second connection unit 202 with respect to the first connection unit
201 can be increased. As another example, when the circular plate 500 is rotated in
the second direction (e.g., counterclockwise), the position of the second protrusion
251, which is seated in the spiral recess 511, is varied to the center region from
the edge region of the circular plate 500 along the spiral recess 511, so that the
separation distance of the second connection unit 202 with respect to the first connection
unit 201 can be reduced.
[0091] According to an embodiment, the second protrusion 251 may be disposed on the second
rear portion 250. For example, the second protrusion 251 may be disposed opposite
the (2-2)
th guide line 242 of the second front portion 240, and may be formed to have a thickness
corresponding to the spiral recess 511 in the circular plate 500.
[0092] According to an embodiment, the second protrusion 251 may be spaced apart from the
side end of the second rear portion 250 by the second distance L2. The second distance
L2 may be the distance for the second protrusion 251 to be seated in the spiral recess
511 in the circular plate 500, and may be different from the first distance L1 by
which the first protrusion 221 formed on the first connection unit 201 is spaced apart
from the side end of the first rear portion 220. For example, the spiral recess 511
in the circular plate 500 may have a spiral shape, and the second protrusion 251 and
the first protrusion 221 may be provided at positions that do not correspond to each
other, so as to be seated in the recess shape. According to an embodiment, it is exemplified
that one second protrusion 251 is provided on the second rear portion 250, but is
not limited thereto. Through a design change, two or more second protrusions 251 may
be provided in various shapes to be seated and supported in the spiral recess 511
in the circular plate 500.
[0093] According to various embodiments, the second connection unit 202 may include the
second side portion 260 that is capable of being exposed toward the first housing
311, and the second side portion 260 may include at least one second recess 261. The
second side portion 260 may be in contact with the first side portion 230 of the first
connection unit 201 or may be spaced apart from the first side portion 230 of the
first connection unit 201 depending on the distance adjustment between the second
connection unit 202 and the first connection unit 201.
[0094] According to an embodiment, the opened second recess 261 formed in the second side
portion 260 may be coupled to the first recess 231 in the first side portion 230 of
the first connection unit 201 so as to form the single closed opening 203. The opening
203 may be disposed so as to penetrate through the first connection unit 201 and the
second connection unit 202, and may provide a space into which the boss 611 formed
in the second cover 600 is inserted. For example, the boss 611 of the second cover
600 may be coupled to the first cover 400 by passing through the through hole 530
in the center of the circular plate 500 and through the opening 203.
[0095] According to various embodiments, the first cover 400 may cover at least a portion
of each of the first connection unit 201 and the second connection unit 202, and may
guide the movements of the first connection unit 201 and the second connection unit
202. According to an embodiment, the first cover 400 may be manufactured to have an
area capable of covering the front faces of the first connection unit 201 and the
second connection unit 202 at the same time. As another example, the first cover 400
may be manufactured to have an area capable of covering at least portions of the upper
end regions and/or at least portions of the lower end regions of the first connection
unit 201 and the second connection unit 202 at the same time.
[0096] According to an embodiment, the first cover 400 may include a first face 410 exposed
to the outside of the electronic device 101, a second face 420 facing the first connection
unit 201 and the second connection unit 202, and a side face 430 protruding rearwards
from the first face 410. The first face 410 may cover the first connection unit 201
and the second connection unit 202 such that at least a portion of the first connection
unit 201 and at least a portion of the second connection unit 202 are not exposed
to the outside. The second face 420 may include at least one guide groove 421a, and
421b, and stopper 422a, or 422b recessed toward the first face 410.
[0097] According to an embodiment, a plurality of guide grooves 421a and 421b may be formed
in the second face 420. For example, the first guide groove 421a may be formed in
an upper end region of the second face 420, and the second guide groove 421b may be
formed in a lower end region of the second face 420. As another example, a third guide
groove or stopper 422a or 422b may be disposed between the first guide groove 421a
and the second guide groove 421b.
[0098] According to an embodiment, the first guide groove 421a is formed in a size capable
of covering the (1-1)
th guide line 211 of the first connection unit 201 and the (2-1)
th guide line 241 of the second connection unit 202 in unison. For example, a portion
of the first guide groove 421a is in contact with the (1-1)
th guide line 211 to help the first connection unit 201 to reciprocally slide without
shaking when the first connection unit 201 is horizontally moved. As another example,
another portion of the first guide groove 421a is in contact with the (2-1)
th guide line 241 to help the second connection unit 202 to reciprocally slide without
shaking when the second connection unit 202 is horizontally moved.
[0099] According to an embodiment, the second guide groove 421b is formed in a size capable
of covering the (1-3)
th guide line 213 of the first connection unit 201 and the (2-3)
th guide line 243 of the second connection unit 202 in unison. For example, a portion
of the second guide groove 421b is in contact with the (1-3)
th guide line 213 to help the first connection unit 201 to reciprocally slide without
shaking when the first connection unit 201 is horizontally moved. For example, a portion
of the second guide groove 421b is in contact with the (2-3)
th guide line 243 to help the second connection unit 202 to reciprocally slide without
shaking when the second connection unit 202 is horizontally moved.
[0100] According to an embodiment, a plurality of third guide grooves (e.g., the stoppers
422a and 422b) may be provided in the second face 420 and may be arranged on the same
line. The third guide grooves (e.g., the stoppers 422a and 422b) may help the (1-2)
th guide line 212 and/or the (2-2)
th guide line 242 to reciprocally slide without shaking when the (1-2)
th guide line 212 and/or the (2-2)
th guide line 242 are horizontally moved. As another example, the third guide grooves
(e.g., the stoppers 422a and 422b) may serve as stoppers. For example, the stoppers
422a and 422b may include the first stopper 422a and the second stopper 422b, which
are spaced apart from each other in the center region of the second face 420. The
first stopper 422a and the second stopper 422b may have a smaller length than the
first guide groove 421a or the second guide groove 421b.
[0101] According to an embodiment, the first stopper 422a may be formed at a position corresponding
to the (1-2)
th guide line 212 of the first connection unit 201 and may be fabricated in a closed
groove shape so as to limit the horizontal movement of the (1-2)
th guideline 212. As another example, the second stopper 422b may be formed at a position
corresponding to the (2-2)
th guide line 242 of the second connection unit 202 and may be fabricated in a closed
groove shape so as to limit the horizontal movement of the (2-2)
th guideline 242.
[0102] According to an embodiment, the side face 430 of the first cover 400 covers at least
a portion of the upper or lower end region of the first connection unit 201 and the
second connection unit 202 together with the second cover 600. The side surface 430
at the upper end of the first cover 400 may include a curved recess 431 for allowing
the user to easily touch a portion of the circular plate 500 exposed to the upper
end.
[0103] FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating a rear side of first and second connection
units and a circular plate of a wearable electronic device according to various embodiments
of the disclosure. FIG. 9 is a projection view illustrating a circular plate coupled
to first and second connection units of a wearable electronic device according to
various embodiments of the disclosure. FIG. 10 is a perspective view illustrating
one side of a circular plate according to various embodiments of the disclosure.
[0104] Referring to FIGS. 8 to 10, the electronic device 101 may include the first housing
311 including the first connection unit 201, the second housing 312 including the
second connection unit 202, the first cover 400, and the circular plate 500. The structure
of the electronic device 101 of FIGS. 8 to 10 may be partly or wholly the same as
the structure of the electronic device 101 of FIGS. 5 to 7.
[0105] According to various embodiments, the first connection unit 201 and the second connection
unit 202 may be disposed so as to face each other, and may be guided by the circular
plate 500 to move in the horizontal direction (+P or -P). For example, the first connection
unit 201 and the second connection unit 202 may move so as to be spaced apart from
each other in the horizontal direction (or in different movement directions), and
the separation distance therebetween may be 0 to 20 mm.
[0106] According to various embodiments, the circular plate 500 includes the first face
510 disposed so as to face the front side, the second face 520 disposed so as to face
the rear side and so as to have the same area as the first face 510, and the through
hole 530 passing through the center of the circular plate 500. The first face 510
of the circular plate 500 may face the first cover (e.g., the first cover 400 in FIG.
3) across the first connection unit 201 and the second connection unit 202 therebetween
and the second face 520 may face the second cover (e.g., the second cover 600 in FIG.
3).
[0107] According to an embodiment, the first face 510 of the circular plate 500 may include
the spiral recess 511. The spiral recess 511 may be made to have a depth and a width
corresponding to the first protrusion 221 and second protrusion 251, and may allow
the first protrusion 221 and the second protrusion 251 to stably move when the first
protrusion 221 and the second protrusion 251 rotate along the recess.
[0108] According to an embodiment, a first region S1 of the spiral recess 511 may be engaged
with the first protrusion 221, and a second region S2 of the spiral recess 511, which
is spaced apart from the first region S1 by a predetermined interval, may be engaged
with the second protrusion 251. For example, the circular plate 500 may be configured
such that, by the rotation of the circular plate 500, the first protrusion 221 and
the second protrusion 251 may move in the predetermined direction along the spiral
recess 511 such that the first predetermined interval may be changed to the second
predetermined interval. Depending on the second predetermined interval, the distance
between the first housing 311 and the second housing 312 may be adjusted.
[0109] According to various embodiments, the first region S1 and the second region S2 of
the spiral recess 511 may vary in response to the rotation of the circular plate 500.
According to an embodiment, the circular plate 500 may rotate clockwise or counterclockwise,
and the first region S1 corresponding to the first protrusion 221 may move in the
circular plate 500 along the spiral recess 511. For example, when the circular plate
500 is rotated in the first direction (e.g., clockwise), the position of the first
region S1 corresponding to the first protrusion 221 is varied to the edge region from
the center region of the circular plate 500 along the spiral recess 511, so that the
separation distance of the first connection unit 201 with respect to the second connection
unit 202 can be increased. As another example, when the circular plate 500 is rotated
in the second direction (e.g., counterclockwise), the position of the first region
S1 corresponding to the first protrusion 221 is varied to the center region from the
edge region of the circular plate 500 along the spiral recess 511, so that the separation
distance of the first connection unit 201 with respect to the second connection unit
202 can be reduced. According to an embodiment, the circular plate 500 may rotate
clockwise or counterclockwise, and the second region S2 corresponding to the second
protrusion 251 may move in the circular plate 500 along the spiral recess 511. For
example, when the circular plate 500 is rotated in the first direction (e.g., clockwise),
the position of the second region S2 corresponding to the second protrusion 251 is
varied to the edge region from the center region of the circular plate 500 along the
spiral recess 511, so that the separation distance of the second connection unit 202
with respect to the first connection unit 201 can be increased. As another example,
when the circular plate 500 is rotated in the second direction (e.g., counterclockwise),
the position of the second region S2 corresponding to the second protrusion 251 is
varied to the center region from the edge region of the circular plate 500 along the
spiral recess 511, so that the separation distance of the second connection unit 202
with respect to the first connection unit 201 can be reduced.
[0110] According to an embodiment, the first region S1 and the second region S2 of the circular
plate 500 may be disposed at different distances from the through hole 530 of the
circular plate 500. For example, since the spiral recess 511 does not have regions
disposed at the same distance from the through hole 530, the first region S1 and the
second region S2, which are varied by rotation, are always disposed at different positions,
thereby forming different separation distances from the through hole 530.
[0111] According to various embodiments, the second face 520 of the circular plate 500 may
be flat, and may be seated on the seating face of the second cover 600. As another
example, a portion of the circular plate 500 may be exposed through an opening disposed
in the upper direction of the second cover 600, and the user may touch the circular
plate 500 with a finger so as to rotate the circular plate 500. According to an embodiment,
the spiral recess 511 or circular plate 500 may further include detents or other friction
features (not shown) such that a position of the first protrusion 221 and the second
protrusion 251 is firmly maintained after user release of the circular plate 500.
[0112] According to various embodiments, the through hole 530 in the circular plate 500
may disposed on the same line as the center of the boss 611 of the second cover, and
may be prevented from breaking away therefrom upon rotation.
[0113] FIG. 11 is a top view illustrating a second cover capable of being coupled to a first
cover of a wearable electronic device according to various embodiments of the disclosure.
FIG. 12 is an expanded perspective view illustrating a circular plate capable of being
coupled to a second cover of a wearable electronic device according to various embodiments
of the disclosure.
[0114] Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, the electronic device 101 may include the first housing
311 including a first connection unit (e.g., the first connection unit 201 in FIG.
8), the second housing 312 including a second connection unit (e.g., the second connection
unit 202 in FIG. 8), the first cover 400, the circular plate 500, and the second cover
600. The structure of the electronic device 101 of FIGS. 11 and 12 may be partly or
wholly the same as the structure of the electronic device 101 of FIGS. 2 to 7.
[0115] According to various embodiments, the second cover 600 may cover the first connection
unit 201, at least a portion of the second connection portion 202, and the circular
plate 500 and may support the rotational movement of the circular plate 500. The second
cover 600 may be formed to have an area corresponding to that of the first cover 400.
[0116] According to an embodiment, the second cover 600 may include a first face 610 facing
the circular plate 500, a second face 620 exposed to the outside of the electronic
device 101, and a side face 630 protruding forwards from the second face 620. The
first face 610 may cover the circular plate 500 such that at least a portion of the
circular plate 500 is not exposed to the outside. The second face 620 may include
the boss 611 protruding toward the first face 610, and the side surface 630 may include
the hook or hooks 631 capable of engaging with the first cover 400.
[0117] According to an embodiment, the first face 610 may include a seating face 612 on
which the circular plate 500 is capable of being seated, and the boss 611 may be fitted
to the through hole 530 in the circular plate 500. The circular plate 500 coupled
to the boss 611 may rotate clockwise or counterclockwise about the boss 611 as a rotation
axis. According to an embodiment, the boss 611 may pass through the through hole 530
in the circular plate 500 to be connected to the opened or closed opening formed by
the first connection unit 201 and the second connection part 202. For example, the
center of the boss 611 of the second cover 600 may be located on the same line as
the center of the through hole 530 in the circular plate 500 and the centers of the
openings of the first connection unit 201 and the second connection unit 202.
[0118] According to an embodiment, the side face 630 may protrude from the first face 610
to the front side, and at least one hook 631 may be disposed at the end thereof. The
hook 631 may face the side face of the first cover 400 to be fitted thereto. As another
example, the center region of the side face 630 may be provided with an opening 632,
and the circular plate 500 may be exposed to the outside through the opening 632.
At least a portion of the exposed circular plate 500 may be rotated by a user using
a finger or the like.
[0119] FIG. 13 is an enlarged view illustrating a first state prior to operation of a distance
adjustment structure of a wearable electronic device according to various embodiments
and distance adjustment structure. FIG. 14 is an enlarged view illustrating a second
state in which a length is varied through a distance adjustment structure of a wearable
electronic device according to various embodiments and distance adjustment structure.
FIG. 15 is an enlarged view illustrating a third state in which a length is varied
through a distance adjustment structure of a wearable electronic device according
to various embodiments and distance adjustment structure.
[0120] Referring to FIGS. 13 to 15, the wearable electronic device 101 may include the distance
adjustment structure 340, which may include the first housing 311 including the first
connection unit 201, the second housing 312 including the second connection unit 202,
the first cover 400, and the circular plate 500. FIGS. 13 to 15 show projection views
in order to clearly illustrate the operation state, in which the structure from which
the second cover 600 is excluded and the spiral recess 511 in the circular plate 500
are shown. The structure of the electronic device 101 of FIGS. 13 to 15 may be partly
or wholly the same as the structure of the electronic device 101 of FIGS. 2 to 12.
[0121] According to various embodiments, in the electronic device 101, the first housing
311 and the second housing 312 may be spaced apart from each other as the circular
plate 500 rotates. For example, the first connection unit 201 and the second connection
unit 202 may move so as to be spaced apart from each other in the horizontal direction
(+P or -P) (or in different movement directions), and the separation distance therebetween
may be 0 to 20 mm.
[0122] According to an embodiment, the first housing 311 may include the first connection
unit 201 extending toward the second housing 312, and the second housing 312 may include
the second connection unit 202 extending toward the first housing 311. The circular
plate 500 may include the spiral recess 511.
[0123] According to an embodiment, the end of the first connection unit 201 and the end
of the second connection unit 202 may be in contact with each other or may be spaced
apart from each other. The first protrusion 221 formed on the first connection unit
201 may be disposed in the first region S1 of the spiral recess 511, and the second
protrusion 251 may be disposed in the second region S2 of the spiral recess 511, which
is spaced apart from the first region S1 by a first predetermined interval T1. The
first region S1 and the second region S2 of the spiral recess 511 may be varied by
rotation. For example, the first region S1 is a region where the first protrusion
221 is disposed, and may be varied to a (1-1)
th region S11, a (1-2)
th region S12, and a (1-3)
th region S13 depending on the rotation of the circular plate 500. As another example,
the second region S2 is a region where the second protrusion 251 is disposed, and
may be varied to a (2-1)
th region S21, a (2-2)
th region S22, and a (2-3)
th region S23 depending on the rotation of the circular plate 500.
[0124] Referring to FIG. 13, the first housing 311 and the second housing 312 are in the
state in which they are not spaced apart from each other. The first protrusion 221
formed on the first connection unit 201 may be disposed in the (1-1)
th region S11 of the spiral recess 511, and the second protrusion 251 may be disposed
in the (2-1)
th region S21 of the spiral recess 511.
[0125] Referring to FIG. 14, the first housing 311 and the second housing 312 may be spaced
apart from each other by the rotation of the circular plate 500. For example, the
distance between the first protrusion 221 of the first connection unit 201 and the
second protrusion 251 of the second connection unit 202 may be varied from the first
predetermined interval T1 of FIG. 13 to a second predetermined interval T2. The second
predetermined interval T2 may be larger than the first predetermined interval T1.
[0126] According to an embodiment, the circular plate 500 is rotatable, and in response
to the rotation of the circular plate 500, the regions in the spiral recess 511 in
which the first protrusions 221 and the second protrusions 251 are seated is variable.
For example, the circular plate 500 may be rotated clockwise by a first angle θ1 about
a reference axis O, compared with FIG. 13. In response to this, the first protrusion
221 formed on the first connection unit 201 may be disposed in the (1-2)
th region S12 of the spiral recess 511, and the second protrusion 251 may be disposed
in the (2-2)
th region S22 of the spiral recess 511. As another example, the first protrusion 221
and the second protrusion 251 may move in the horizontal direction (+ P or -P).
[0127] Referring to FIG. 15, the first housing 311 and the second housing 312 may be somewhat
more spaced apart from each other by the rotation of the circular plate 500, compared
with FIG. 14. For example, the distance between the first protrusion 221 of the first
connection unit 201 and the second protrusion 251 of the second connection unit 202
may be varied from the second predetermined interval T2 of FIG. 14 to a third predetermined
interval T3. The third predetermined interval T3 may be larger than the second predetermined
interval T2.
[0128] According to an embodiment, the circular plate 500 is rotatable, and in response
to the rotation of the circular plate 500, the regions in the spiral recess 511 in
which the first protrusions 221 and the second protrusions 251 are seated is variable.
For example, the circular plate 500 may be rotated clockwise by a second angle θ2
about the reference axis O, compared with FIG. 13. In response to this, the first
protrusion 221 formed on the first connection unit 201 may be disposed in the (1-3)
th region S13 of the spiral recess 511, and the second protrusion 251 may be disposed
in the (2-3)
th region S23 of the spiral recess 511. As another example, the first protrusion 221
and the second protrusion 251 may move in the horizontal direction (+ P or -P).
[0129] The length of each of the first connection unit 201 and the second connection unit
202 connected to the display devices can be adjusted through the interval adjustment
structure, and can be corrected depending on the size of the user's head. Thus, it
is possible to prevent warping of an optical path provided in an optical output device
such as a projector, to prevent warping of a connection portion between display devices,
and to eliminate side effects such as phase distortion and dizziness.
[0130] FIG. 16 is a perspective view illustrating a wearable electronic device according
to another embodiment of the disclosure, which is equipped with a distance adjustment
structure. FIG. 17 is an enlarged view in which a part of a rear side of a distance
adjustment structure according to an embodiment of the disclosure is enlarged. FIG.
18 is an enlarged view in which a part of a front side of a distance adjustment structure,
according to an embodiment of the disclosure, is enlarged.
[0131] Referring to FIGS. 16 to 18, the electronic device 101, according to various embodiments
of the disclosure, may be a virtual-reality-related device, and may include a face
mount unit 800 configured to be worn on the user's face. The face mount unit 800 of
the electronic device 101 may include a display panel (not illustrated) disposed in
a cover unit 810, a display panel (not shown) disposed in the cover unit 810, lens
barrels 821 and 822, and a distance adjustment structure 801, 802, 840, or 500.
[0132] According to various embodiments, in the worn state, the electronic device 101 may
be positioned to correspond to the user's face (e.g., both eyes). According to an
embodiment, the electronic device 101 may output an image to both eyes of the user.
For example, the electronic device 101 may include a display panel or an optical device,
in which the optical device may include lens barrels 820 corresponding to the user's
eyes, so that the user's left and right eyes can recognize images which are output
from the display panel through respective independent paths (e.g., respective lens
barrels).
[0133] According to various embodiments, a configuration in which the display panel of the
electronic device 101 is incorporated is disclosed, but the disclosure is not limited
thereto. For example, the electronic device 101 may not include a display panel, and
an external device equipped with a display device, such as a mobile communication
terminal, may be detachably provided in the electronic device 101. In an embodiment,
when the external device is mounted, a display device (e.g., a display device mounted
on the electronic device) may be positioned to face both of the user's eyes with the
optical device interposed therebetween. The external device may reproduce a multimedia
content therein (or received from an external electronic device) or the like or may
execute a game, and an output screen may be provided to both of the user's eyes through
the optical device.
[0134] According to an embodiment, the optical device may be mounted on a display panel,
and may include the pair of lens barrels 821 and 822, and at least one lens 821a or
822a mounted on each of the lens barrels 821 and 822. The types and the number of
the lenses 821a and 822a provided in the lens barrel 821 or 822 are variously designed
and combined in consideration of the distance between the user's eyes and the display
panel (or the display device of the mounted electronic device). According to an embodiment,
each of the lens barrels 820 may be arranged to correspond to both the user's left
and right eyes, and may guide images output from the display panel to the user's eyes.
[0135] According to various embodiments, the user may wear the wearable electronic device
101, and may adjust the distance between the eyes through the distance adjustment
structure depending on the size of the user's head. The distance adjustment structure
of the electronic device 101 may include the first connection unit 801, the second
connection unit 802, the circular plate 500, and the guide member 840. The structures
of the first connection unit 801, the second connection unit 802, and the circular
plate 500 of the electronic device 101 of FIGS. 16 and 18 may be partially or wholly
the same as the structures of the electronic device 101 of FIG. 1 and the connection
unit 201, the second connection unit 202, and the circular plate 500 of FIGS. 2 to
12.
[0136] According to various embodiments, the first connection unit 801 and the second connection
unit 802 may be disposed so as to face each other, and may be guided by the circular
plate 500 and the guide member 840 to move in the horizontal direction (+P or -P).
For example, the first connection unit 801 and the second connection unit 802 may
move so as to be spaced apart from each other in the horizontal direction (+P or -P)
from the state in which one face of the connection unit 801 and one face of the second
connection unit 802 are disposed to be in contact with each other, and the separation
distance therebetween may be 0 to 20 mm.
[0137] According to various embodiments, the first connection unit 801 may be disposed so
as to at least partially extend from the end of the lens barrel 821 (e.g., the first
housing) toward the second lens barrel 822 (e.g., the second housing), and may include
at least one protrusion (e.g., a first protrusion 831). The second connection unit
802 may be disposed so as to at least partially extend from the end of the second
lens barrel 822 toward the first lens barrel 821, and may include at least one protrusion
(e.g., a second protrusion 832). According to an embodiment, the guide member 840
may be disposed so as to pass through the first connection unit 801 and the second
connection unit 802, and may have a shaft structure.
[0138] According to various embodiments, the first connection unit 801 and the second connection
unit 802 may be disposed so as to be in contact with or to be spaced apart from each
other, and one face of each of the first connection unit 801 and the second connection
unit 802 may support the circular plate 500.
[0139] According to various embodiments, the circular plate 500 may include the first face
510 disposed so as to face the first connection unit 801 and the second connection
unit 802. For example, the first face 510 may include the spiral recess 511, and may
include a region capable of engaging with the first protrusion 831 of the first connection
unit 801 and the second protrusion 832 of the second connection unit 802. The structure
of the circular plate 500 of FIG. 10 may be applicable to the specific configuration
of the circular plate 500.
[0140] According to various embodiments, the guide member 840 may be disposed so as to pass
through the first connection unit 801, to be connected to the second connection unit
802, and to pass through the second connection unit 802. When the separation distance
between the first connection unit 801 and the second connection unit 802 is variable,
the guide member 840 may guide the first connection unit 801 and the second connection
unit 802 to be movable in the horizontal direction (+ P or -P).
[0141] According to an embodiment, a first rear portion 801a disposed to face the rear side
of the first connection unit 801 may include at least one first protrusion 831 protruding
to the rear side. The first protrusion 831 may be coupled to the circular plate 500
so as to provide stable movement for the first connection unit 801. For example, the
first protrusion 831 may move in the state of being inserted into and seated in a
region of the spiral recess 511 formed in the circular plate 500. The first protrusion
831 may move in the horizontal direction with respect to the second protrusion 832,
and the circular plate 500 may rotate in response to the movement of the first protrusion
831. The seated position of the first protrusion 831 in the spiral recess 511 may
be variable.
[0142] According to an embodiment, the circular plate 500 may rotate clockwise or counterclockwise,
and the first protrusion 831 seated in the spiral recess 511 may move in the circular
plate 500 along the spiral recess 511. For example, when the circular plate 500 is
rotated in the first direction (e.g., clockwise), the position of the first protrusion
831, which is seated in the spiral recess 511, is varied to the edge region from the
center region of the circular plate 500 along the spiral recess 511, so that the separation
distance of the first connection unit 201 with respect to the second connection unit
202 can be increased. As another example, when the circular plate 500 is rotated in
the second direction (e.g., counterclockwise), the position of the first protrusion
831, which is seated in the spiral recess 511, is varied to the center region from
the edge region of the circular plate 500 along the spiral recess 511, so that the
separation distance of the first connection unit 201 with respect to the second connection
unit 202 can be reduced.
[0143] According to an embodiment, a second rear portion 802a disposed to face the rear
side of the second connection unit 802 may include at least one second protrusion
832 protruding to the rear side. The second protrusion 832 may be coupled to the circular
plate 500 so as to provide stable movement for the second connection unit 802. For
example, the second protrusion 832 may move in the state of being inserted into and
seated in a region of a spiral recess 511 formed in the circular plate 500. The second
protrusion 832 may move in the horizontal direction with respect to the first protrusion
831, and the circular plate 500 may rotate in response to the movement of the second
protrusion 832. The seated position of the second protrusion 832 in the spiral recess
511 may be variable.
[0144] According to an embodiment, the circular plate 500 may rotate clockwise or counterclockwise,
and the second protrusion 832 seated in the spiral recess 511 may move in the circular
plate 500 along the spiral recess 511. For example, when the circular plate 500 is
rotated in the first direction (e.g., clockwise), the position of the second protrusion
832, which is seated in the spiral recess 511, is varied to the edge region from the
center region of the circular plate 500 along the spiral recess 511, so that the separation
distance of the second connection unit 202 with respect to the first connection unit
201 can be increased. As another example, when the circular plate 500 is rotated in
the second direction (e.g., counterclockwise), the position of the second protrusion
832, which is seated in the spiral recess 511, is varied to the center region from
the edge region of the circular plate 500 along the spiral recess 511, so that the
separation distance of the second connection unit 202 with respect to the first connection
unit 201 can be reduced.
[0145] According to various embodiments disclosed herein, a wearable electronic device may
include a first housing (e.g., the first housing 311 in FIG. 3) including a first
display device (e.g., the first display device 351 in FIG. 3) configured to provide
visual information, and a first connection unit (e.g., the first connection unit 201
in FIG. 3) having a first protrusion (e.g., the first protrusion 221 in FIG. 4) formed
thereon; a second housing (e.g., the second housing 312 in FIG. 3) including a second
display device (e.g., the second display device 352 in FIG. 3) coupled to the first
connection unit to be movable in a predetermined direction and configured to provide
visual information, and a second connection unit (e.g., the second connection unit
202 in FIG. 3) having a second protrusion (e.g., the second protrusion 251 in FIG.
4) formed thereon; and a circular plate (e.g., the circular plate 500 in FIG. 3) including
a spiral recess (e.g., the spiral recess 511 in FIG. 9), the circular plate being
coupled to the first protrusion in a first region (e.g., the first region S1 in FIG.
9) of the recess and being coupled to the second protrusion in a second region (e.g.,
the second region S2 in FIG. 9) spaced apart from the first region by a first predetermined
interval (e.g., the first predetermined interval T1 in FIG. 13). The circular plate
may be configured such that, by the rotation of the circular plate, the first protrusion
and the second protrusion move in a predetermined direction along the recess such
that the first predetermined interval may be changed to a second predetermined interval
(e.g., the second predetermined interval T2 in FIG. 14), and depending on the second
predetermined interval, the distance between the first housing 311 and the second
housing 312 is adjustable.
[0146] According to various embodiments, as lengths of the first region and the second region
of the circular plate are varied, the first predetermined interval may be changed
to the second predetermined interval.
[0147] According to various embodiments, a first distance (e.g., the first distance L1 in
FIG. 9) may be formed from an end of the first connection unit, which faces the second
housing, to the first protrusion, and a second distance (e.g., the second distance
L2 in FIG. 9) may be formed from an end of the second connection unit, which faces
the first housing, to the second protrusion. The first distance and the second distance
may differ from each other.
[0148] According to various embodiments, the first protrusion and the second protrusion
are disposed to be aligned with a predetermined axis, and as the distance between
an end of the first housing and an end of the second housing is adjusted, the distance
between the first display device and the second device is adjustable.
[0149] According to various embodiments, the change from the first predetermined interval
to the second predetermined interval may be performed in a horizontal direction with
respect to a length direction between the first protrusion and the second protrusion,
which are disposed parallel or substantially parallel to each other.
[0150] According to various embodiments, the electronic device includes a first cover (e.g.,
the first cover 400 in FIG. 4) facing a first face of the electronic device and disposed
to enclose at least a portion of the first connection unit and the second connection
unit. The first cover includes at least one guide groove (e.g., the guide groove 421a
or 421b in FIG. 7) formed in one face facing the first connection unit or the second
connection unit and configured to guide a movement of the first connection unit or
the second connection unit; and a stopper (e.g., the stopper 422a or 422b in FIG.
7) disposed to be spaced apart from the guide groove and configured to limit the movement
of the first connection unit or the second connection unit.
[0151] According to various embodiments, the first connection unit may include a first front
portion (e.g., the first front portion 210 in FIG. 5) including at least one first
guide line (e.g., the first guide line 211, 212, or 213 in FIG. 5) protruding toward
the first face of the electronic device; a first rear portion (e.g., the first rear
portion 220 in FIG. 6) including a first protrusion protruding toward a second face
of the electronic device, which is opposite the first face of the electronic device;
and a first side portion (e.g., the side portion 230 in FIG. 5) disposed to face the
second housing, and having a first recess (e.g., the first recess 231 in FIG. 5) formed
in at least a portion thereof.
[0152] According to various embodiments, the first guide line may include a (1-1)
th guide line (e.g., the (1-1)
th guide line 211 in FIG. 5) disposed in an upper end region or a lower end region of
the first front portion, and engaged with the guide groove of the first cover so as
to guide a slide movement of the first connection unit in a predetermined direction;
and a (1-2)
th guide line (e.g., the (1-2)
th guide line 212 in FIG. 5) disposed to be spaced apart from the (1-1)
th guide line, and engaged with the stopper of the first cover so as to limit a movement
distance of the first connection unit.
[0153] According to various embodiments, the second connection unit may include a second
front portion (e.g., the second front portion 240 in FIG. 5) including at least one
second guide line (e.g., the second guide line 241, 242, or 243 in FIG. 5) protruding
toward the first face of the electronic device; a second rear portion (e.g., the second
rear portion 250 in FIG. 6) including a second protrusion protruding toward a second
face of the electronic device, which is opposite the first face of the electronic
device; and a second side portion (e.g., the side portion 260 in FIG. 5) disposed
to face the first housing, and having a second recess (e.g., the second recess 261
in FIG. 5) formed in at least a portion thereof.
[0154] According to various embodiments, the second guide line may include a (2-1)
th guide line (e.g., the (2-1)
th guide line 241 in FIG. 5) disposed in an upper end region or a lower end region of
the second front portion, and engaged with the guide groove of the first cover so
as to guide a slide movement of the second connection unit in a predetermined direction;
and a (2-2)
th guide line (e.g., the (2-2)
th guide line 242 in FIG. 5) disposed to be spaced apart from the (2-1)
th guide line, and engaged with the stopper of the first cover so as to limit a movement
distance of the second connection unit.
[0155] According to various embodiments, the first recess of the first connection unit and
the second recess of the second connection unit are coupled to each other so as to
form an opening (e.g., the opening 203 of FIG. 3) of a closed line.
[0156] According to various embodiments, the circular plate and the first cover may be disposed
so as to face each other across the first rear portion of the first connection unit
and the second rear portion of the second connection unit therebetween, and the circular
plate may include a through hole (e.g., the through hole 530 in FIG. 4) disposed in
a center of the spiral recess and formed through the circular plate.
[0157] According to various embodiments, the spiral recess may extend with a constant width,
and at least a portion of the circular plate may be disposed so as to be exposed to
the outside the electronic device, thus allowing a user to touch and rotate at least
a portion of the circular plate.
[0158] According to various embodiments, the electronic device may further include a second
cover (e.g., the second cover 600 in FIG. 3) facing a first face of the electronic
device and disposed to enclose at least a portion of the circular plate. The second
cover may include a boss (e.g., the boss 611 in FIG. 12) disposed to pass through
the circular plate and to extend toward the first cover; at least one hook (e.g.,
the hook 631 in FIG. 12) configured to be coupled with the first cover; and an opening
(e.g., the opening 632 in FIG. 12) formed in at least a portion of the upper end region
so as to expose at least a portion of the circular plate.
[0159] According to various embodiments, the boss of the second cover, the through hole
in the circular plate, and a center of the opening formed by the first connection
unit and the second connection unit may be arranged on the same line.
[0160] According to various embodiments disclosed herein, a wearable electronic device may
include a first display device configured to provide visual information; a second
display device disposed to be spaced apart from the first display device and configured
to provide visual information; and a distance adjustment structure disposed between
the first display device and the second display device, and configured to adjust the
distance between the first display device and the second display device. The distance
adjustment structure may include a first connection unit disposed to extend from the
first display device toward the second display device and including a first protrusion
disposed to protrude in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction; a second
connection unit disposed to extend from the second display device toward the first
display device and including a second protrusion disposed to protrude in a direction
perpendicular to the extension direction; and a curved plate including a spiral recess
such that the first protrusion and the second protrusion are seated in the recess
in a state of being spaced apart from each other so as to provide a spiral movement.
As the curved plate rotates, the distance between the first protrusion and the second
protrusion disposed in the spiral recess may be varied.
[0161] According to various embodiments, a first distance is formed from an end of the first
connection unit, which faces the second display device, to the first protrusion, and
a second distance is formed from an end of the second connection unit, which faces
the first display device, to the second protrusion. The first distance and the second
distance may differ from each other.
[0162] According to various embodiments, one face of the first connection unit and one face
of the second connection unit face each other, and as the curved plate rotates, the
distance between the first connection unit and the second connection unit is adjustable
from a first predetermined distance to a second predetermined distance.
[0163] According to various embodiments, the electronic device may further include a first
cover facing a first face of the electronic device and disposed to enclose at least
a portion of the first connection unit and the second connection unit. The first cover
may include at least one guide groove formed in a front face portion of the first
cover facing the first connection unit or the second connection unit and configured
to guide a movement of the first connection unit or the second connection unit; and
a stopper disposed to be spaced apart from the guide groove and configured to limit
the movement of the first connection unit or the second connection unit.
[0164] According to various embodiments, the electronic device may further include a guide
member (e.g., the shaft 840 in FIG. 16) having a shaft shape disposed to pass through
the first connection unit and the second connection unit, and configured to guide
the horizontal movement of the first connection unit and the second connection unit.
[0165] While the disclosure has been shown and described with reference to various embodiments
thereof, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes in form
and details may be made therein without departing from the scope of the disclosure
as defined by the appended claims. In accordance with an aspect of the disclosure,
a wearable electronic device is provided that can be adjusted according to the size
of a user's head by adjusting the distance between respective display devices that
provide an image to the user.
[0166] In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, a wearable electronic device
is provided that prevents warping of an optical path provided in an optical output
device, such as a projector, by adjusting the distance between respective display
devices that provide an image to the user.
[0167] In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, a wearable electronic device
is provided in which display devices are able to output images at positions corresponding
to the focuses of the user's eyes by adjusting the distance between the respective
display devices that provide an image to the user.